The iPhone 7 Plus, released in 2016, was a flagship device that boasted an impressive array of features, including a dual-camera setup, water resistance, and a powerful A10 Fusion chip. However, one feature that was noticeably absent was wireless charging. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of wireless charging, explore why the iPhone 7 Plus doesn’t support it natively, and discuss alternative solutions for users who want to experience the convenience of wireless charging.
What is Wireless Charging?
Wireless charging, also known as inductive charging, is a technology that allows devices to be charged without the need for a physical connection. It uses electromagnetic fields to transfer energy between a transmitter (the charging base) and a receiver (the device). This technology has been around for several years and has gained popularity in recent times, with many smartphones, watches, and other devices supporting it.
How Does Wireless Charging Work?
Wireless charging works on the principle of electromagnetic induction. When a device is placed on a charging base, an electromagnetic field is generated, which induces an electrical current in the device’s receiver coil. This current is then converted into direct current (DC) power, which is used to charge the device’s battery.
Types of Wireless Charging
There are two main types of wireless charging:
- Qi (Wireless Power Consortium): This is the most widely used wireless charging standard, supported by most devices, including iPhones (from iPhone 8 onwards).
- PMA (Power Matters Alliance): This standard is less common but still used by some devices, such as those from Samsung.
Why Doesn’t the iPhone 7 Plus Support Wireless Charging?
The iPhone 7 Plus, along with its smaller sibling, the iPhone 7, was released in 2016, a time when wireless charging was not as widespread as it is today. Apple likely chose not to include wireless charging in these devices due to several reasons:
- Technical limitations: At the time, wireless charging technology was still in its early stages, and the efficiency of charging was not as high as it is today.
- Design constraints: The iPhone 7 Plus had a metal back, which made it difficult to implement wireless charging. Metal can interfere with the electromagnetic field, reducing the efficiency of charging.
- Prioritizing other features: Apple may have prioritized other features, such as water resistance and the dual-camera setup, over wireless charging.
Alternative Solutions for iPhone 7 Plus Users
While the iPhone 7 Plus doesn’t support wireless charging natively, there are alternative solutions available for users who want to experience the convenience of wireless charging:
Wireless Charging Cases
One solution is to use a wireless charging case, which can be attached to the iPhone 7 Plus. These cases have a built-in receiver coil that can receive electromagnetic energy from a charging base. Some popular options include:
- Incipio Ghost Qi Wireless Charging Case: This case is designed specifically for the iPhone 7 Plus and supports Qi wireless charging.
- Spigen Wireless Charging Case: This case is another popular option that supports Qi wireless charging and has a sleek design.
Wireless Charging Adapters
Another solution is to use a wireless charging adapter, which can be attached to the iPhone 7 Plus’s Lightning port. These adapters have a built-in receiver coil that can receive electromagnetic energy from a charging base. Some popular options include:
- Aukey Wireless Charging Adapter: This adapter is designed specifically for the iPhone 7 Plus and supports Qi wireless charging.
- Anker Wireless Charging Adapter: This adapter is another popular option that supports Qi wireless charging and has a compact design.
Conclusion
While the iPhone 7 Plus doesn’t support wireless charging natively, there are alternative solutions available for users who want to experience the convenience of wireless charging. Wireless charging cases and adapters can provide a convenient and efficient way to charge your device without the need for a physical connection. As wireless charging technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see more devices supporting this feature in the future.
Final Thoughts
Wireless charging is a convenient and efficient way to charge your device, and while the iPhone 7 Plus may not support it natively, there are alternative solutions available. If you’re looking to upgrade to a newer iPhone model, consider one that supports wireless charging, such as the iPhone 8 or later. However, if you’re happy with your iPhone 7 Plus, a wireless charging case or adapter can provide a convenient and efficient way to charge your device.
| iPhone Model | Wireless Charging Support |
|---|---|
| iPhone 7 Plus | No |
| iPhone 8 | Yes (Qi) |
| iPhone X | Yes (Qi) |
| iPhone 11 | Yes (Qi) |
| iPhone 12 | Yes (Qi) |
Note: The table above shows the wireless charging support for different iPhone models. The iPhone 7 Plus does not support wireless charging, while newer models, such as the iPhone 8 and later, support Qi wireless charging.
Is the iPhone 7 Plus capable of wireless charging?
The iPhone 7 Plus does not support wireless charging out of the box. Apple did not integrate wireless charging capabilities into the iPhone 7 Plus when it was released in 2016. However, this does not mean that you cannot charge your iPhone 7 Plus wirelessly. There are alternative solutions available that can enable wireless charging on your device.
One popular solution is to use a wireless charging case or receiver. These cases and receivers contain a built-in Qi-compatible coil that allows your iPhone 7 Plus to receive wireless charging signals. Simply place the case or receiver on a Qi-compatible charging pad, and your iPhone 7 Plus will begin to charge wirelessly.
What is Qi-compatible wireless charging, and how does it work?
Qi-compatible wireless charging is a widely adopted standard for wireless charging technology. Qi (pronounced “chee”) is a Chinese word that means “life energy” or “vital energy.” Qi-compatible charging pads and receivers use electromagnetic induction to transfer energy between the charging pad and the device being charged. This energy is then converted into electrical energy that powers your device.
Qi-compatible wireless charging is convenient and easy to use. Simply place your device on a Qi-compatible charging pad, and it will begin to charge automatically. Qi-compatible charging pads are widely available, and many public places, such as coffee shops and airports, offer Qi-compatible wireless charging stations.
Can I use any wireless charging case or receiver with my iPhone 7 Plus?
Not all wireless charging cases and receivers are compatible with the iPhone 7 Plus. When selecting a wireless charging case or receiver, make sure it is specifically designed for the iPhone 7 Plus. Check the product description or packaging to ensure compatibility. Additionally, look for cases and receivers that are Qi-compatible and support the same wireless charging frequency as your charging pad.
It’s also essential to choose a reputable brand that offers high-quality products. Cheap or low-quality cases and receivers may not work efficiently or may even damage your iPhone 7 Plus. Read reviews and do your research before making a purchase to ensure you find a reliable and compatible wireless charging solution.
How fast can I charge my iPhone 7 Plus wirelessly?
The charging speed of your iPhone 7 Plus using a wireless charging case or receiver depends on the charging pad and the case or receiver itself. Most wireless charging cases and receivers support standard 5W wireless charging, which is the same speed as the original iPhone charger. However, some cases and receivers may support faster charging speeds, such as 7.5W or 10W.
To achieve faster wireless charging speeds, make sure your charging pad supports the same speed as your case or receiver. Additionally, ensure that your iPhone 7 Plus is running the latest software, as updates often improve wireless charging performance. Keep in mind that wireless charging may not be as fast as wired charging, but it’s still a convenient and easy way to keep your device charged.
Are there any risks associated with wireless charging?
Wireless charging is generally safe and efficient. However, as with any electronic device, there are some risks to be aware of. One potential risk is overheating, which can occur if the charging pad or case is faulty or if the device is not properly aligned on the charging pad. To minimize this risk, choose a high-quality charging pad and case, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Another potential risk is electromagnetic interference (EMI), which can affect the performance of other electronic devices nearby. However, most wireless charging pads and cases are designed to minimize EMI, and the risks are relatively low. To further reduce the risks, keep your wireless charging pad and device away from other electronic devices and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Can I use a wireless charging pad designed for other devices with my iPhone 7 Plus?
Yes, you can use a wireless charging pad designed for other devices with your iPhone 7 Plus, as long as it’s Qi-compatible. Qi-compatible charging pads are designed to work with a wide range of devices, including iPhones, Samsung phones, and other Qi-compatible devices. However, make sure the charging pad supports the same wireless charging frequency as your case or receiver.
When using a wireless charging pad designed for other devices, ensure it’s compatible with your iPhone 7 Plus case or receiver. Check the product description or packaging to confirm compatibility. Additionally, be aware that some charging pads may have specific features or settings that are designed for other devices, so you may need to adjust the settings or use a different charging mode to optimize performance.
Is wireless charging worth it for my iPhone 7 Plus?
Whether wireless charging is worth it for your iPhone 7 Plus depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you value convenience and ease of use, wireless charging may be a great option for you. Wireless charging pads are widely available, and many public places offer wireless charging stations, making it easy to keep your device charged on the go.
However, if you’re looking for a cost-effective solution or prefer the speed of wired charging, you may not need wireless charging. Additionally, if you already have a reliable charging solution, you may not see the benefits of switching to wireless charging. Ultimately, consider your needs and preferences before deciding whether wireless charging is worth it for your iPhone 7 Plus.